Who We Are
Upward Development Programs is committed to develop and enrich individuals to contribute and recognize their role and responsibility in thriving communities. Our purpose is find potential opportunities and develop innovative and cost-effective programs in which our children, families and communities have a better and quality life.
We work with highly trained and advocate personnel who are engaged with our community to help with our client’s needs. Upward Development Programs create individualized services to meet the existing needs of youth and families. We work with high-risk youth involved in the juvenile justice system to reduce misconduct. Our programs assist with various programs for children that often burden schools and our community’s system.
Chief Executive Officer
James Watson is a highly experienced administrator who has demonstrated the ability to lead the development and management of child welfare systems, juvenile justice programs, school-based advocacy, behavioral health, and housing programs.
James has an impressive track record of over 25 years in human service, with hands-on experience in recruiting, personnel development, residential living, B2H coordination, case management, transitional housing, and quality service delivery. James demonstrates superb business insight and experience in maintaining positive relationships with referring agencies, community leaders, and government officials.
Through his leadership with Upward Development, he has proven the ability to analyze program deficiencies and potential opportunities and develop innovative and cost-effective solutions for diversifying funding, increasing revenue, and improving the quality of life for children, families, and communities served.
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Our Executive Vice President & CFO Harry K. Bonsu boasts over twenty-five years of seasoned expertise as a high-ranking administrator across a spectrum of industries, spanning healthcare, human services, and entrepreneurship. His leadership prowess has been honed through guiding diverse teams with multifaceted skills and backgrounds.
From 2008 onwards, Harry held the role of Senior Vice President for Administration and Member Services, overseeing a multitude of departments and personnel, serving a substantial community of adults with physical disabilities and seniors with chronic illness. His focus on person-centered services, coupled with his astute business acumen, has been pivotal in promoting quality care.
Prior to this pivotal role, Harry served as the Chief Financial and Administrative Officer for an organization dedicated to fostering family support and youth empowerment. There, he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the organization’s financial landscape, paving the way for its mission-driven endeavors.
In tandem with his professional endeavors, Harry founded Golden Shores Financial Group in 2007, a financial services firm specializing in insurance and tax solutions, catering to clients nationwide. He brings to the table IRS-certified tax preparation expertise, alongside a rich educational background encompassing Political Science, Business Management, and an MBA in Business Finance.
